Elevate Your Appetizers with Delicious Raw Vegetable Swaps
Whipped Feta with Honey + Chopped Pistachios
This has been my go-to appetizer recipe all summer, and let me tell you, the whipped feta combined with the honey creates an irresistible sweet and savory contrast. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on trying it!
Why Choose Raw Vegetables Over Chips & Bread
Choosing raw vegetables or crudité, over chips or bread can offer several advantages for health and well-being. Here are the benefits of swapping bread for raw vegetables:
You get more nutrient density when choosing raw vegetables such as sliced carrots, bell peppers, celery, and cucumber since they are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Increased fiber Intake which promotes digestive health, helps maintain a healthy weight, and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
Chips and bread, especially those made from refined grains, can cause spikes in blood sugar levels due to their high glycemic index. On the other hand, raw vegetables have a lower glycemic index, which means they are digested more slowly, providing a steady release of energy and promoting better blood sugar control.
More hydration for the body since many raw vegetables have a high water content
While chips or bread can be enjoyed in moderation, choosing crudité (raw vegetables) as an alternative can provide you with a nutrient-dense, low-calorie option that supports your health goals and nourishes your body with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a simple and tasty way to increase your vegetable intake and enjoy a satisfying appetizer.
Tip when traveling or dining out: You can pair raw vegetables with nutritious dips like hummus, guacamole, or salsa for added flavor and texture. Ask your server for raw vegetables instead of chips or pita or on the side. Most of the time they are able to accommodate the request.
Benefits of Raw Unpasteurized Honey
Honey brings so many amazing benefits to the body and it happens to taste good too. The natural sugars found in raw honey provide a quick and sustained energy source without the need for artificial sweeteners or processed sugars. Raw unpasteurized honey is packed with many vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes that contribute to overall health and well-being. The antioxidants protect against oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body. While the enzymes aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut.
Raw honey’s antimicrobial properties have been used for centuries to prevent infections and aid in wound healing. Some people believe that consuming local raw honey may help alleviate seasonal allergies and that the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can clear up eczema.
Recipe
Ingredients (6 servings):
8oz cream cheese *at room temperature
8oz crumbled feta
1/4 cup olive oil
A few sprigs of oregano leaves chopped
Salt & pepper
Raw unpasteurized honey
Chopped pistachios (optional topping)
Chopped chives (optional topping)
Your choice of raw vegetables (sliced cucumbers, sliced radishes, endive)
Directions:
Add the cream cheese, crumbled feta, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper to a food processor. *Add more olive oil for a creamier consistency if needed.
Scoop dip onto a plate or bowl and form a hole in the middle
Add the honey to the center of the plate
Top with the chives and pistachios
Serve with raw vegetables. Enjoy!
